Training in pediatric palliative care in Italy: still much to do

Abstract

Aim. This survey investigated the availability of training programs in pediatric palliative care (PPC) for Italian postgraduates specializing in pediatric medicine. Methods. Two questionnaires were developed: (i) a questionnaire addressed to the Directors of Italian postgraduate pediatric medicine programs (n = 37); and (ii) a survey to the postgraduate students in pediatric medicine at the University Hospitals of Padua and Udine (n = 127). Results. 14 directors participated (response rate: 37.8%). In 85.7% of cases (n = 12), lectures on PPC were offered, for a supposed maximum of 90 minutes/year. 116 students responded (response rate: 91%): they stated that, pproximately 40 min/year of training on PPC was provided. In total, 37% of responders stated they attended a PPC Service during their training. The majority of responders (68.1%, n = 79) did not feel ready to care for a pediatric patient with life-limiting disease. Conclusions. Although PPC is well-recognized as part of a pediatrician’s training, it receives poor attention.